Winnipeg, MB, June 30, 2021: on June 25, the Office of the Auditor General of Manitoba released its “Report on Findings, Main Street Project Investigation” (report dated May, 2021).
The Auditor General’s investigation of Main Street Project was initiated in 2019 following allegations by a former employee directed towards the previous Executive Director. The duration of the audit was substantially longer than normal because of delays related to COVID-19. To address the allegations as expeditiously as possible, the Board of Main Street Project arranged for an independent audit by an external CPA firm and that audit was completed in August 2019.
The Auditor General investigation confirmed the findings of the earlier independent audit that there was no misappropriation of funds at Main Street Project. However, both audits recommended strengthening of controls related to expense account approvals and those improvements were implemented immediately following the first audit in 2019. The Auditor General also recommended further enhancements related to Executive Director oversight, purchasing policies, Board governance and record keeping and those improvements have also been fully implemented or are in the process of being implemented.
Main Street Project has also undertaken a comprehensive risk review to ensure that it is following best practices in aspects of its operations. The organization is also in the process of updating its five year strategic plan and is seeking input from all community members and agencies as it forges new directions for the future.
With an expanded shelter facility now operational, a new Executive Director and a highly committed staff and Board, Main Street Project is well-positioned to continue addressing the many challenges and opportunities associated with people experiencing homelessness in Winnipeg.
For more information, please contact:
Vince Warden- Chair Main Street Project Board of Directors
To correspond with Vince Warden contact:
Cindy Titus, Communication/Fund Development Coordinator
Office: 204-982-8257 Cell: 204-792-7997
Email: ctitus@mainstreetproject.ca
